Question

In the partial reactions shown below, is the reactant undergoing oxidation or reduction?

Short answer

(a) The reactant is undergoing reduction.

(b) The reactant is undergoing reduction.

Step-by-step solution

Oxidation and reduction

Oxidation is the process of increasing the oxidation state, while reduction is the process of decreasing the oxidation state.

A number of principles are employed to determine the oxidation state of carbon atoms. The oxidation state is unaffected by any bonds that may exist between carbon atoms. The oxidation state is decreased by one for each connection between a carbon and a hydrogen atom. The oxidation state is increased by one for each link of carbon to an electronegative element.

Explanation for part (a)

When carbon reacts, it forms a double bond with oxygen and is in the +2 state. After the process, it forms single bonds with hydrogen and oxygen, resulting in an oxidation state of 0, resulting in the decrease of oxidation state.

Hence, this reaction undergoes reduction.

Explanation for part (b)

The reduction of carbon with an -OH group is the reaction that results in the production of double bonds from alcohol. Thus, the oxidation state decreases.

Hence, the reaction undergoes reduction.